Fox Chapel-based Women's Board of Pittsburgh donates items to children in foster care, announces 2024 fundraising event

The Women’s Board of Pittsburgh has brought in more than $1.4 million for children’s charities since its inception in 1992, but the constant need is never far from their minds, members said.

For their December meeting, members rounded up donations of blankets, toiletries, socks and books to benefit children in foster care.

Items were given to Foster Love Project, which was among the beneficiaries of the Women’s Board annual luncheon fundraiser in April.

“Springtime in Paris,” the 2023 fundraiser, brought in more than $83,000 to benefit Earthen Vessels Outreach, Foster Love Project, Joy Riders and the Will Allen Foundation.

“Once they get to know these deserving charities and the needs of the children they support, those needs are never off the minds of the members of the Women’s Board,” spokeswoman Lisa Bowden said.

Based in Wilkinsburg, Foster Love provides a free shopping experience for children in the foster care system.

“This important program allows children to choose new and gently used clothing, shoes, toys and toiletries since many of them often enter foster care with nothing but the clothes that they are wearing,” Bowden said.

Earthen Vessels Outreach is a Bloomfield group that provides before- and after-school care and summer camps for economically disadvantaged children.

The group used the money to buy music supplies and arts and crafts to give kids a hands-on experience.

Joy Riders of Pittsburgh provides bike rides to physically and mentally disabled people who are unable to operate a bike themselves.

Joy Riders travel along the river trails on the North Side of Pittsburgh, using special bikes that allow unobstructed views of the river and surrounding area.

Volunteers ride along with the special bike as spotters to alert other bikers, walkers and runners to clear a path, Bowden said.

The Will Allen Foundation is a nonprofit started by former Pittsburgh Steeler Will Allen. The foundation raises money for three programs to help economically challenged children: a holiday giving project, a backpack supply program and Quest for Success.

The board has announced its 2024 fundraiser date and theme — “Safari Sunset” will be April 25 at the Fox Chapel Golf Club.

The mission, to “fashion their future,” is carried out through the spring event, which features cocktails, dinner and auctions. Past years have included a fashion show from Carabella in Oakmont.

Founded in 1992, the Women’s Board boasts about 70 members. Previous grants have paid for science programs, weekend food packages, fitness sessions and birthday presents for homeless children.

Past recipients have included Hosanna House, Beverly’s Birthdays and the children’s programs of the Women’s Center and Shelter of the Greater Pittsburgh area, among others.

For details or to volunteer, visit wbpgh.org.